The Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation Fellowship in Photograph Conservation

We are Guggenheim, a global constellation of museums unlike any other in the world. Four museums on three continents, united by the power of groundbreaking art to connect us to ourselves and to each other. Since our founding in 1937, the Guggenheim has introduced, celebrated and brought to the public the newest voices and visions in modern and contemporary art. When Solomon R. Guggenheim and Hilla Rebay set out to share the joy they first experienced in discovering experimental art, they initiated the creative risk-taking that is today synonymous with “Guggenheim” throughout the world. Across the globe, each Guggenheim stands not just as a backdrop for visionary art but as masterpieces in and of themselves to experience.

Summary Of Position

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is pleased to offer a two-year post-graduate fellowship in photograph conservation, generously endowed by The Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation. The Mapplethorpe Conservation Fellow will focus on the conservation, preservation, and research of the photographic collection held by the Guggenheim Museum, working in a collaborative and interdisciplinary lab.

In addition to participating in day-to-day museum operations and gaining practical experience from the conservation staff at the Guggenheim, the Mapplethorpe Conservation Fellow will also participate in a research initiative focused on the museum’s Robert Mapplethorpe Collection, comprised of 194 of Mapplethorpe’s photographs and unique objects, spanning every period from the artist’s oeuvre. Conservation research will involve a focused technical investigation to characterize the physical and chemical attributes of these collection works.

Skill And Experience Requirements

• Applicants should be recent graduates of a master’s-level training program in conservation with a specialization in photograph conservation.
• Excellent hand skills.
• Knowledge of collection’s management databases, imaging techniques, and conservation documentation methodologies.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Knowledge and experience with handheld XRF and radiation safety is preferred.
• Demonstrated interest and experience in modern and contemporary artworks.
  
  

Key Responsibilities

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Examine, analyze, and treat photographs in the Guggenheim collection, adhering to the highest standards under supervision of the Senior Conservator
• Prepare loan evaluations, attend exhibition and loan meetings, and participate in related activities and treatments to prepare photographs for exhibition.
• Examine, document, and advise on new acquisitions.
• Assist with maintaining a modern and well-equipped lab.
• Produce written and photographic documentation, including condition reports, treatment proposals and reports, artist’s interviews, technical notes, and installation instructions for works of art.
• Adhere to and follow the principles outlined in the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
• Advise on appropriate handling and storage housings for photographic collection materials.
• Participate in discussions regarding preventive conservation, including environmental controls and monitoring methods, periodic assessment of collections and emergency preparedness including response and recovery.
• Ability to act as courier for works of art in transit, as needed.
  
  

WORK DEMANDS And ENVIRONMENT

• Ability to travel within the metropolitan area as required to perform the above duties at any of the Guggenheim’s owned or leased properties upon request.
• Willingness to work with organic solvents and/or fumes when needed, adhering to appropriate health and safety protocols.
  
  

Education

• Master’s degree in art conservation
  
  

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS: n/a

REPORTS TO: Senior Conservator, Paper and Photographs

LOCATION: Midtown West Manhattan

WORK SCHEDULE: Hybrid eligible, and Hours vary based on position.

POSITION TYPE: Full-time, Exempt. This position is covered by a Collective Bargaining Agreement with Local 2110 UAW.

Position to start in the Fall of 2025 and end in the Fall of 2027.

SALARY RANGE: $55,000 Annually and research-related travel allowance

The Guggenheim is dedicating itself to creating paths that lead to a more inclusive and diverse institution. We encourage inquiries from applicants who will reflect the plurality of our culture and our global audience. The Guggenheim does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, creed, color, religion, marital status, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, veteran status, national origin or disability status.

Department: Conservation

This is a full-time position